iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

Alex Hern @hern.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

It's finally happened: the improved quality of machine transcription and the greater ability to extract value from unlabelled data means "your tech is eavesdropping on you for marketing purposes" has crossed from "false conspiracy theory" to "true and concerning" www.theverge.com/tech/991190/...

theverge.com

LG TVs caught spying even when offline or on standby

Gamers Nexus comes for LG again.

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Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

Lisa LeVasseur @lalevasseur.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Love this framing @tressiemcphd.bsky.social data politics doesn’t happen without data economics. Central to this must also be acknowledging the immorality of personal data as a market/good. www.nytimes.com/2026/08/03/o...

nytimes.com

Opinion | A Reading List for Our Age of A.I. (Gift Article)

A.I. is a political theory. And it is gobbling up our democracy.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Launched a series on why and how we can adopt a framing of product safety for digital products today! Can product safety succeed where other governance attempts have offered partial (and often ineffective) governance? We think it can, but it will take work. www.linkedin.com/posts/lisale...

linkedin.com

Internet Safety Labs is proud to jointly produce this two-part workshop on why and how product safety can be a better way to govern digital products. | Lisa LeVasseur

Internet Safety Labs is proud to jointly produce this two-part workshop on why and how product safety can be a better way to govern digital products.

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Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

Signal @signal.org · 22/04/2026

We are very happy that today Apple issued a patch and a security advisory. This comes following 404 Media reporting that the FBI accessed Signal message notification content via iOS despite the app being deleted.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 23/04/2026

💯 There's also precedent for this: a long history of independent product safety audits that are adversarial (or at least uninfluenced by manufacturers).

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Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

Dr Abeba Birhane @abeba.blacksky.app · 21/04/2026

when i explain adversarial audits, people sometimes ask me if i also do”positive” audits that confirm positive claims about vendors. i am not sure how to put it politely but that’ll doing corporate pr, which many journalists already do when they parrot what a ceo has said without critical scrutiny

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 30/03/2026

Questions: (1) no fines? (2) is this basically a pinky promise? (3) Are there only two serving FTC commissioners?

"The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated final order was 2-0."

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 19/02/2026

We have successfully fought for product safety repeatedly in the past and we can do so now. We can no longer live in this ongoing amnesiac fog, thinking that these digital products are somehow exempt from basic product safety. Stay tuned..... 3/3

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 19/02/2026

We can and must start coalescing around a vision of measurably safe digital product behavior. You can call it "privacy by design" or "safety by design" or "ethical AI by design" or whatever, but what people want deserve is reasonably safe digital products. 2/3

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 19/02/2026

Industry loves that the war for safer digital products is being waged on multiple disconnected fronts. It hampers accountability and makes the goal of achieving actually safe digital products more expensive and difficult. 1/3

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Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

WeRateDogs @weratedogs.com · 10/02/2026

we need to talk about that Ring Super Bowl ad

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 31/01/2026

"Perhaps the most substantive change is that the US government has achieved its own kind of “golden share” of unfettered TikTok user data. In short, it might be the worst of all possible worlds." By @lalevasseur.bsky.social Irene Knapp and Bryce Simpson

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 31/01/2026

We're a bit late here, but we started some research on TikTok last year and shelved it due to other priorities. For Privacy Day, in light of the announced sale of US-related TikTok assets to the new TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, we release the updated piece: internetsafetylabs.org/blog/researc...

internetsafetylabs.org

TikTok's Real Privacy Risks - Internet Safety Labs

When lawmakers in the US began debating whether to institute a ban on TikTok, Internet Safety Labs (ISL) performed a privacy audit of the app to understand where it was sharing data. In 2025, in light...

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Reposted by Internet Safety Labs

Meredith Whittaker @meredithmeredith.bsky.social · 12/01/2026

We love to see it! Community-created harm reduction infrastructure to contest the alarming integration of AI agents into the Windows operating system (which is currently the most reckless deployment environment) ♥️ github.com/zoicware/Rem...

github.com

GitHub - zoicware/RemoveWindowsAI: Force Remove Copilot, Recall and More in Windows 11

Force Remove Copilot, Recall and More in Windows 11 - zoicware/RemoveWindowsAI

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 15/01/2026

What fresh copilot ai hell is being once again foist upon us? all of the settings in MS Word Advanced that apply at a file level, apparently default to [the obnoxiously truthfully named? ] "AI Agent AI Spy.docx". This is exhausting.

snapshot of Microsoft Office Options menu open to the "Advanced" tab, highlighting a default file called AI Agent AI Spy.docx for two options.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

while reusing existing definitions as much as possible. Join us for the fun! internetsafetylabs.org/get-involved... /fin

internetsafetylabs.org

Join a Panel - Internet Safety Labs

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

The purpose of these new resources is to better align technologists with legal terminology (and vice versa), to identify strengths/weaknesses in terminology in existing AI laws, and to arrive at a disambiguated and ISL-approved list of terms and definitions, /3

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

📣 Calling all word-nerds: we're updating our glossary of terms in our open-to-the-public Software Safety Standards Panel. We've synthesized definitions from extant AI and other laws worldwide to arrive at a clear and complete list of terms. /1

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

Historically, we've mainly focused on 2 and 3. We really must get keener about codifying acceptable and unacceptable risk in digital product behavior. /fin

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

4️⃣ Governance must cover at least 3 things (in no particular order): (1) constraints on digital product behavior, (2) constraints on human behavior and use of digital products (cybercrime), and (3) constraints on corporate behavior in building digital products. /7

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

So when we're dealing with Digital Product Safety, a responsible manufacturer must keep aware of both ends of the [not really a] spectrum, and first and foremost, the design-based behaviors. /6

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

3️⃣Digital products possess the unique quality that they are capable of inflicting harms and hazards through their independent action (i.e. without human support). i.e. the products BEHAVE in a hazardous or harmful manner. In addition, humans can use digital products in a harmful manner. /5

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

Digital products are riddled with hazards that can become harms. Direct, immediate harm, like suicide coaching by chatbots, eg.,are presently lower frequency, but the dumpster fire accelerant of so-called "AI" technologies seems to be increasing immediately harmful digital product behavior. /4

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

Note that the majority of behaviors ISL tracks in our safety labels are more accurately understood as hazards: they are necessary conditions that, when combined with other conditions, can and will result in harm to the person using the tech. /3

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

2️⃣ Note the change in language from "Programmatic Harm" to "Design-based hazards and harms". We think this lines up better with language used in litigation, and also more accurately covers both hazards and harms baked into digital products by design. /2

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

We've just refined our depiction of digital product hazards and harms. Some key takeaways: 1️⃣ There are two actors capable of inflicting harm or generating hazards when it comes to digital products: the products themselves and humans who weaponize digital products. /1

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 23/09/2025

Have you checked out App Microscope yet? 🔎 App Microscope is a useful tool that displays safety labels for mobile applications, with over 1700 apps studied from our previous K-12 EdTech Safety Benchmark. Check it out here: appmicroscope.org

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 22/09/2025

We’ve conducted extensive research into school tech safety & compiled a set of recommendations covering app, web, and school technology practices. Dive into more of our Privacy Recommendations for EdTech stakeholders in the link below 👇: internetsafetylabs.org/resources/re...

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 19/09/2025

At Internet Safety Labs, we're committed to making the digital world a safer place. If you find our work valuable, consider supporting our mission! Your donations help us continue to provide critical insights and transparency in software safety. 👉 Donate here: internetsafetylabs.org/donate

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 17/09/2025

Have you checked out App Microscope yet? 🔎 App Microscope is a useful tool that displays safety labels for mobile applications, with over 1700 apps studied from our 2 K-12 EdTech Safety Benchmark. Check it out here: appmicroscope.org

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 16/09/2025

💡 Helpful Hint from ISL: If you see a "Do Not Sell My Information" on a website's homepage it means that company IS selling your data. 😬 If you're a California resident, be sure to always click on that button and do the needful. If you're NOT a California resident, at least you know there's a risk.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 15/09/2025

📣ATTENTION: EdTech Developers! The new school year is here and it's the perfect time to ensure your tech is safer for students! Dive into more of our Privacy Recommendations for EdTech stakeholders in the link below 👇: internetsafetylabs.org/resources/re...

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 12/09/2025

Want to help set the standard for safer software? Join our Software Safety Standards Panel! We’re gathering experts to define and uphold essential safety standards for software. If you’re ready to dive in—this panel is for you. 🔗 Get involved here: internetsafetylabs.org/get-involved/

internetsafetylabs.org

Get Involved - Internet Safety Labs

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 11/09/2025

Did you know that 23% percent of school apps used by K12 students include ads? 13% include retargeting ads directed at children. This is one of the many findings within our previous US EdTech Benchmark report: 🔗: internetsafetylabs.org/wp-content/u...

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 10/09/2025

Did you know most school apps used by K12 students are unsafe for children? That's just the tip of the iceberg! 😬 Deep dive into our research findings in our previous US K12 EdTech Product Safety Benchmark Report: 🔗: internetsafetylabs.org/resources/re...

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 09/09/2025

When it comes to the average number of required apps by grade level, our research found that elementary school level children had the HIGHEST average of required/recommended apps than any other school level across the board. 😳

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 08/09/2025

These schools also had the lowest rates of providing computing devices to students at only 50% of schools. Check out more of our findings in our Findings Report 3 below. ⬇️ 🔗: internetsafetylabs.org/wp-content/u...

internetsafetylabs.org

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 08/09/2025

There’s a disparity in tech safety & support for the lowest income schools & American Indian/Alaska Native majority schools in the US. Schools within the lowest income ($20k-$39k) had the lowest % of tech vetting and the highest % of unsafe apps & digital ads, as well as apps w/ behavioral ads! 😲

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 05/09/2025

If you find our work valuable, consider supporting our mission! Your donations help us continue to provide critical insights and transparency in software safety. Every contribution makes a difference! 🤝 👉 Donate here: internetsafetylabs.org/donate

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 05/09/2025

At Internet Safety Labs, we're committed to making the digital world a safer place. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of software safety or find practical tools for your advocacy work, we have a plethora of research tools that can help: internetsafetylabs.org/resources/

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 04/09/2025

Have you checked out App Microscope yet? App Microscope is a useful tool that displays safety labels for mobile applications, with over 1700 apps studied from our previous K-12 EdTech Safety Benchmark. Check it out here: appmicroscope.org

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 03/09/2025

ChatGPT’s anthropomorphism, sycophancy, & deception are intentional design choices made by OpenAI to maximize user engagement. Adam Raine’s tragic death illustrates the human cost and underscores the need for accountability and liability in AI. centerforhumanetechnology.substack.com/p/how-openai...

centerforhumanetechnology.substack.com

How OpenAI's ChatGPT Guided a Teen to His Death

With CHT's Policy Director Camille Carlton

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 02/09/2025

To us, a safer internet means product safety in all connected software. The landscape of risks and harms visited upon us while using connected technology is vast, ranging from Unsafe Software to Weaponized Software.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 02/09/2025

It’s crucial to be aware of potential programmatic harms in software/apps. These aren't just bugs; they're design elements that can perpetuate bias, invade privacy, and even jeopardize safety. Always review permissions and read between the lines.

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 29/08/2025

ISL is the only independent product testing lab for empirically measuring privacy and other safety risks in websites & mobile apps. In this critical time of need, your donation, at any level, can help us fulfill our mission by ensuring the safety of all. 🔗: internetsafetylabs.org/donate

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 28/08/2025

If your find our podcast insightful, please consider making a donation to us this holiday season! 🌟 Your support is crucial in helping Internet Safety Labs continue to make the digital world safer for everyone. 🤝 Donate here: internetsafetylabs.org/donate

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Internet Safety Labs @internetsafetylabs.bsky.social · 28/08/2025

Have you watched our Unsafe at any Click podcast yet? Join us as thought leaders delve into privacy and the nuances of digital safety. Now streaming on YouTube and Vimeo, with more platforms to follow: www.youtube.com/@InternetSaf...

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